A model for desferrioxamine-induced retinopathy using the albino rat

We describe a rat model of the ocular toxicity induced in patients by the iron chelator desferrioxamine (DFX). The functional integrity of the rat photoreceptor membrane is assessed by measurement of the electroretinogram b wave amplitude. Following single bolus doses of DFX (50, 100 and 150 mg), rats develop dose-related suppression of b wave amplitude within 48 h. Recovery takes place over the subsequent 14 days. This ocular damage is exacerbated by exposure to increased levels of white light and oxygen. Studies in this model also show that darkness and, in particular, red light protect the eye against DFX toxicity. This is of potential use in patient management during DFX therapy.